Welcome. I'm a retired U.S. Army officer and former newspaper editor who embarked on my journey into Tai Chi while still in active service. Although my initial interest was piqued during my military days, my pursuit of Tai Chi was temporarily sidelined by time constraints and professional respons…
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FAQs:
What is Aikido Training?
Aikido, a word that translates to “the way of harmonious spirit,” is a Japanese martial art that was developed by Morihei Ueshiba. Training focuses on using the force of the attacker rather than one’s own strength, making it a grappling art that shows concern for the well-being of the attacker, with students learning to protect themselves rather than harm another person. Aikido training involves not only the learning of certain techniques but also involves cultivating awareness of one’s opponent as well as self-discipline.
Can You Learn Aikido by Yourself?
It is possible to learn Aikido at home. Many online courses, classes, and videos exist to help solo practitioners master the movements. However, it can be harder to learn movements that were designed to be practiced on another person. But learning at home requires more discipline since there is no one else to hold you accountable. Some martial arts like Tai Chi work great when learning on your own as they don’t require a partner. Online Karate classes could focus mostly on katas which are done alone. Aikido, on the other hand, uses a lot of hip throws and joint locks. While you can study and practice those movements. Doing them on your own is NOT going to be the same as practicing them on someone else. But, if you’re on a tight budget or there isn’t a dojo nearby, practicing and learning at home can definitely be done and is still better than not learning martial arts at all.
Is Aikido Hard to Learn?
Yes, Aikido can be hard to learn. Many Aikido techniques are subtle and require very specific movements to execute well. Additionally, because Aikido’s main goal is to not damage your opponent any more than necessary, it relies more on your senses and timing than it does brute force. So in that sense, it is easier to learn than something like Muay Thai which is incredibly physically demanding. And it won’t take as long to master as something like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Aikido does take devotion though, and a high degree of subtlety because, as counterintuitive as it may seem, you’re actually learning “how not to fight.” It’s essentially a defensive art because the intention is not to harm the attacker even as you subdue them. You’re learning how to flow with the attacker’s energy and use it against them. It doesn’t sound easy because it isn’t. It helps to have the right mindset and to understand the essence of the art. Then, you’ll be able to evince the patience needed.
How Long Does it Take to Learn Aikido?
In a dojo, it will take a new student 1 year of Aikido practice to be proficient, and that’s if you practice 2-3 times per week. To earn a black belt (first dan) typically takes 4 to 5 years, again practicing 2-3 times per week minimum. The time it takes naturally varies from person to person. It is a function of how devoted they are, how many times they are practicing each week, the quality of the instructions, and their mindset. It’s quite possible to master the basic movements fast, but it’s far better to learn slowly and perfect the techniques rather than rush through them and pick up some bad habits. A good instructor looks out for both. Because as you’ve glimpsed, Aikido is a holistic martial art that’s about peace and harmony. It’s just about mastering some physical techniques. It’s also about self-mastery.
Is Aikido Good for Self-Defense?
Aikido is a very effective martial art for self-defense, not only because it teaches us how to defend against a variety of attacks, but because it is also training our state of mind and physical condition. Improved posture and breathing help us to fit better into our bodies; a positive state of mind affects how we move in the world and how we are perceived by others. The ability to maintain the physical center and mental calm helps us in meeting stressful situations or in resolving conflict in a variety of situations in the dojo, on the street, at school, in a business meeting, or at home. Most martial arts can help us improve physical things like balance, timing, and reaction. One of the purposes of repeated training is to move these things from conscious processing to automatic reflexes. Aikido also helps us develop our spirit, sense of well-being, awareness, and compassion. The multi-faceted approach to Aikido training makes us stronger and more complete human beings, better able to diffuse or defend against negative situations.
Does Aikido Make You Fit?
After the general warmup, regular martial art practice begins. This consists of practicing a variety of Aikido techniques that engage the whole body. This is the point where the aerobic aspect of Aikido kicks in. Aikido is practiced in pairs and can be done softly and gently or very vigorously. It is up to the partners to decide the pace. In this way, each person can practice at his or her level. Aikido also involves a number of rolls and pins. This means that at least half of the time practitioners are getting up and down off the floor, thereby using the whole body. It is a very effective workout. To achieve consistent and cumulative results, practicing Aikido 2 or 3 times a week is suggested. Aikido, as with any other martial art, requires effort and commitment. It is challenging and a very rewarding practice. And it will certainly get you in shape.
Does Aikido Require a Lot of Strength?
No, since Aikido uses evasive movements combined with using the attacker's momentum against them, any person can find Aikido very rewarding and most importantly, effective.
Are There Any Aikido Competitions?
No! Since Aikido is purely self-defense, competition is not possible in the practice of Aikido. Even though Aikido is at its heart non-violent, most of the techniques can be quite dangerous, if not outright deadly if the attack has the true intent of killing or injuring the student. Because of this, if competition was allowed, some of these techniques would be forbidden, and therefore not taught.
What is the Difference Between Jiu Jitsu and Aikido?
Even though they have notable similarities in philosophy, Aikido and Jujitsu are very different from one another. The difference between Jiu-jitsu and Aikido is its style and technique, Jiu-jitsu has proven to be more dangerous than Aikido and has been used for fighting for many years. Also, Jiu-jitsu has a more recognized grading system and practitioners can compete in tournaments to improve their fighting ability. On the other hand, Aikido mainly focuses on self-defense. It has basic moves for attacking and it includes both grabbing and striking techniques.
Is Aikido Effective in a Street Fight for a Self-Defense?
Aikido is not effective in a street fight for self-defense, although it teaches defensive strategies such as joint locks, throws, and strikes. The goal of Aikido is to defend yourself while trying to avoid hurting the attacker. That philosophy can be costly because a street attacker will definitely try to hurt you. Aikido will teach you how to be more aware and disregard your ego in life. It will also teach you how to use the attacker’s momentum against them. All those things can be useful in a street fight. The technique itself is not sustainable to keep you safe and allow you to defend yourself effectively. There are many better combat sports and self-defense systems you can learn.
What Does Aikido Cost?
The cost of Aikido classes ranges from $60 – $100 per month. However, some dojos offer discounts for students and military personnel. Some trainers offer drop-in rates, which typically range from $10 – $20. In a nutshell, Aikido is a relatively affordable martial art to learn and is in line or cheaper than many martial arts. It offers excellent value for the price.
History of Aikido
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that originated around the tenth century. It was developed into modern Aikido in the late 19th century by Morihei Ueshiba ( 1883 – 1969 ) as an unarmed defense against armed or unarmed attacks. It has continued to evolve and in its present form is a very effective self-defense art for men or women, regardless of size or strength. Aikido derives its effectiveness from the principles of non-resistance. Rather than struggle with an attacker, a person trained in Aikido learns to blend with the strength and momentum of the attack enabling the defender to throw or immobilize the assailant by joint manipulation. The Tomiki system was developed by Professor Kenji Tomiki ( 1900 – 1970 ), one of the top students of the founder of modern Aikido, Morihei Uyeshiba. Professor Tomiki was the first student to attain the rank of 8th dan under Morihei Uyeshiba. Professor Tomiki also attained the rank of 8th dan in Judo as a student of the founder of Judo, Jigaro Kano. From the influence of these two great masters and from his study of other martial arts, Professor Tomiki developed his own system of Aikido.
The Purpose of Aikido Training
The purpose of Aikido training is not the perfection of a martial skill, but rather the improvement of one's character. The objective of Aikido is not necessarily to defend yourself or to hurt attackers, but ultimately to contribute to the making of a better society through the united training of body, mind, and spirit. The developer of Aikido spent decades spreading this message of peace through the art of Aikido.
Being a martial art, people are often surprised, even perplexed to learn that Aikido means "the way of harmony." “Ki” (pronounced ‘key’) is the Eastern philosophical concept of the universal creative principle of life – the life force or breath. Ki is at the heart of Aikido – both in concept and in word. When the word is broken down into syllables it reads Ai-Ki-Do.
AI = Harmony / Connection
KI = Spirit / Energy
DO = Way / Path
Literally, Aikido translates as "the way of harmony with Ki." Aikido seeks to unite this Ki of the Universe with the Ki found within each person. The Founder of Aikido believed that a person was at their highest level of self-actualization when universal ki and one’s personal ki were aligned. The use of the word “ki” or spirit in a Japanese context doesn’t necessarily imply a religious connotation. Rather, it recognizes the inherent energy found in all living and non-living things… all matter and non-matter, that is.
General Principles in Aikido
1. The basics are not all the executable techniques, but a wide selection of them. Aikido contains a number of throwing and pinning techniques, which vary slightly depending on the attack. All cannot be considered basic, but most of them should indeed be.
2. The system of basics should make compatibility with other Aikido systems possible. In regard to how the techniques are done, as well as to what techniques are included, a system of basics should be such that the Aikido student is able to train and adapt to the training in another dojo than his or her own.
3. Basic techniques should be reasonable to perform. Too complicated solutions are not basics. Some techniques are basic against certain attack forms, but not against others where they are very awkward or difficult to do. Furthermore, any basic technique should in itself be reasonably straightforward.
4. Attack forms that are not reasonably feasible, are not included in the basics. Some attacks, or combinations of attacks, are so difficult or awkward for the attacker that they are quite unlikely, therefore not to be included in a basic system.
5. Also, other techniques than these basics may be executable and trained. It is important to train more than the basics, to progress well in Aikido. Also, variations and complicated non-basics should be tried with some frequency. Otherwise the aikido in a dojo risks shrinking to something less than it can be.
Philosophy of Aikido
Aikido’s philosophy is that of a path toward the attainment of enlightenment. At the heart of Aikido is a profound philosophy of compassion. Its goal is to make a better world, even in the process of defending oneself.
It’s one of those viewpoints that can lead to a peaceful world. Contrary to what many assume, it’s not merely about being able to physically defend oneself in a fight.
It’s a worldview that’s a tad strange to the average person. In Aikido, you’re trained and expected to strive for harmony, even with your opponents.
Even in how the art is used, you can discern its philosophy in practice: The goal is not to hurt, but to use the opponent’s energy against them by avoiding and deflecting it in such a manner that both you and your assailant are not harmed.
You’re not expected to harm any soul, even if they seek to harm you. This is because Aikido sees the whole world as one, and its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, once noted that you hurt yourself when you hurt others!
It’s vital to stress that it’s not an abstract philosophy.
In fact, Aikido is a way of life. It’s a lifelong practice that transcends the dojo. It’s about being one with the energy that permeates the universe, which naturally calls for being harmonious with our fellow human beings.
It’s an incredibly powerful philosophy because if you think about it, a world where we all live in harmony is superior to one in which we are constantly fighting and trying to learn the best skills for defending ourselves.
It is also a testament to the power of Aikido that it gives us techniques for defending ourselves, but at the same time, it offers us a way of seeing the world that’s apt to make for harmony and peace.
Benefits of Aikido Training
Some benefits of Aikido training:
1. An effective system of self-defense
2. Teaches safe techniques for falling and avoiding injury
3. Promotes improved mind-body coordination
4. Aids in increasing flexibility of joints and muscles
5. Provides methods for relaxation of body and mind
6. Improves focus and concentration
7. Raises stamina and physical conditioning
8. Trains the mind to remain calm under stressful situations
9. Develops a dynamic, energetic individual
What to Expect from an Aikido Class
Aikido (a.k.a the martial art of peace), is a form of physical exercise that can be practiced by people of all ages – young and old. This martial art aims to teach students a means of self-defense by blocking the opponent and ensuring that they do not get hurt. While Aikido is not a violent art (students are taught to avoid violence as much as possible), it can be quite effective.
Learning Aikido is not just about learning self-defense – there is a lot more to the art. It is also a great way to learn discipline, and self-awareness, and get valuable exercise too. If you are thinking about joining an Aikido class as a beginner, you might want to know what to expect.
10 things to expect for your first Aikido class:
1. Arrive 15 minutes early for a meet and greet.
2. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
3. Remove all jewelry and keep your nails short.
4. Bow when entering and leaving the dojo.
5. Bow in before the class begins.
6. Aikitaiso (warming up stretches) before class.
7. Mokusou or Ki breathing exercises.
8. Falling and rolling practice.
9. Slow demonstration of basic “attack” techniques.
10. The teaching of Japanese and Aikido terms.
It is important to note that a beginner’s Aikido class will differ from that of a more advanced Aikido class. The above 10 points relate specifically to a first-class aimed at beginners. Aikido is a foreign art to someone who has never practiced it, and it is natural to expect several lessons to pass before a student grasps the concepts and movements.
If you are just starting out, do not give up to quickly – give it time. The first few classes that you attend will be slow and quite demonstrative. This is to allow students the time to grasp the concept and not feel overwhelmed by all the new things they are learning.
What to Wear for Aikido Training
The clothing you wear for Aikido training is called a “gi.” It consists of a loose-fitting jacket and pants made from sturdy cotton or synthetic fabric. A belt known as an “obi” is worn around the waist to keep the gi in place alongside a hakama worn over the gi.
A hakama, which is a pleated skirt-like garment worn over the gi is a part of the uniform in many Aikido schools but is not essential at all ranks in every school. While the hakama is not essential, it is considered proper etiquette to wear one if you have the experience and rank.
Aikido students who are walking into the school for the first time are not required to wear or purchase a uniform beforehand in almost all cases. Simply show up in comfortable clothing like athletic wear or sweatpants and a T-shirt.
After you have done your trial class or classes and have decided that you would like to train in Aikido regularly you can purchase a gi. Generally speaking, you should purchase whatever people in your home school wear and may even be provided with a gi as part of your registration. If you have freedom of choice on what gi to purchase, I think that you can get the best value by picking out a Judo gi.
How to Stay Safe When Practicing Aikido
Aikido is a martial art that involves intense physical contact, and as with any physical activity, there are risks involved. Thankfully, with proper training and supervision, these risks can be very greatly minimized.
To stay safe while practicing Aikido, be sure to follow the instructions and guidelines set out by your instructor. This includes wearing the proper protective gear, such as a mouthguard and headgear.
It's also crucial to listen to your body and not push through the pain of an injury. Practicing good hygiene and disinfecting training equipment regularly can also help prevent the spread of infections.
Also be sure to avoid risky behavior, such as performing dangerous stunts or ignoring tap-outs during training.
Warming up and stretching before each training session is essential to avoid injuries. And in case an injury occurs, don't dally! Be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Also, be sure to educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of concussions and always seek medical attention if you suspect one has occurred during training.
By following these tips, you can minimize the risks involved in practicing Aikido and focus on learning this beautiful martial art.
How to Find a Good Martial Arts School
This page focuses on how to find a good martial arts school. It was designed to help parents with young “future martial artists” and adult beginners. These questions should be answered to your satisfaction. Talk to instructors, students, and parents of the students attending the martial arts school in order to learn the pros & cons of a specific martial arts school.
1. Pick a school based on your martial arts “goals” – Do you want to concentrate on self-defense instruction? Do you want to learn more about a foreign culture? Do you want only a good cardio workout? You need to decide on your personal martial arts goals and find a school that best matches those goals.
2. Examine several schools – Check out several schools, rather than just going to the closest martial arts school. The teaching style of schools can vary significantly (from very regimented to overly loose).
3. Research the expertise and background of the instructor – Watch out for fake 8th-degree black belts. Those tend to be 80 years old, not 25!
4. Watch the instructors carefully – You want to find instructors that teach well and make the class enjoyable.
5. Ask questions – Talk to other students, parents & children at the school in order to find out their likes and dislikes about the school and instructors.
6. Visit different classes – After you have found an interesting school, visit different classes (versus just the basic introductory class). Visit the black belt classes, sparring classes, and even the belt tests. See if the school’s attitude changes as the children advance. You don’t want to find a school that changes in a negative way (i.e. becomes too harsh) as your child progresses to higher belts.
7. Focus on safety – Is there enough stretching? What happens if a child is hurt? What level of supervision is given during sparring classes?
8. Always get an introductory trial – See if your child enjoys martial arts training before committing to any long-term contract. Ask if the school has a short introductory trial offer that covers a few weeks and use that time to see if your child enjoys the school and is mature enough to handle the instruction. Also, be wary of a “cheaper” multi-year contract. Try the “more expensive” monthly programs until you feel certain that your child likes the martial arts school. Many kids do not last multiple years in martial arts as they have other commitments (i.e. school sports) or lose interest.
9. What is the “real” cost? – Make sure to find out the real cost of the class. Beyond the monthly/annual fee, what additional costs will you pay? Be aware that you are likely to pay for items such as uniforms, sparring gear, and belt tests.
10. Consider the location of the school – If it is too far away, you might find it hard to go frequently and thus quit or fall behind the other students.
How to Get Started in Aikido Training
To start training in Aikido, it is necessary to find a dojo (place to train) near you. Sources of information on dojo locations include the internet, phone company yellow pages, street signs, and Aikido-related magazines. You should visit any school you are considering, to see firsthand what the school, instructor, students, energy, and training are like. Stay clear of schools that do not let observers in or who do not give you a welcome or comfortable feeling. Remember that the energy or ‘vibes’ of a school come from that of its members, and those are the people with whom you will be working and training closely. Choose accordingly! The school should also be accredited by a national organization, and the instructors should have legitimate certifications. Ask whether the dojo offers an introductory or trial membership. Some offer introductory-level classes or six- to eight-week sessions as an ‘Introduction to Aikido’. This type, of course, is a good way for you to try the art and see if it is for you. Once you have found a dojo and decided that you'd like to train or continue training, you should try to attend classes at least two times per week. Once a week is good for a basic introduction, but for actually learning and retaining the material, it is better to attend classes more often, as your schedule and outside commitments allow.
Sources:
The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.
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